Atlanta Braves podcast S2E31: clinching thoughts and future outlooks
It was good to record a podcast while the Atlanta Braves were in the process of sweeping away the Phillies. Now the next-level work begins.
If all goes the way we think, then baseball is going to experience some really close and really entertaining playoff matchups, and one of the first will see our Atlanta Braves take on the Milwaukee Brewers.
It could end up being something as “simple” (on the surface) as defense that decides this first round NLDS affair.
A cursory glance suggests that the teams are fairly close together: Milwaukee claims 57 Defensive Runs Saved and the Braves are at 48 (6th and 8th in the majors, respectively).
However, 36 of those DRS for the Brewers come via their outfield (2nd in MLB) while the Braves are at -1 (!), which ranks 14th.
While that does suggest that out infield defense is really good, it also means that the outfield remains a bit of a liability.
Atlanta did lose 2 quality defenders during the year: Ronald Acuna Jr. and Ender Inciarte… not to mention Cristian Pache, who could at least still join the playoff roster as a defensive replacement… but we’ve talked about that, too.
As it happens, Adam Duvall is still quite capable as a former Gold Glove winner — which is why he’s roaming center field, though he truly doesn’t have the range of a true CF.
His talents would play better on a corner, but the Braves don’t really have that option… and thus whether it’s him of Joc Pederson out there, they do have a concern with outfield defense… and it’s actually Jorge Soler and Eddie Rosario more than whatever happens in CF.
But we have another week to think about that series, which is set to start next Friday, October 8th. Until then, here within the podcast are our thoughts about some playoff predictions… along with some other matters that should concern MLB even more.
You can see what we’re up to in 3 ways:
- This direct download link
- The convenience of your favorite podcast subscription service
- The handy inline player just below
Next. Auditions began last night. dark
Regardless of the delivery medium you choose, we want to thank you for checking out this edition of the podcast and we’ll look forward to perhaps an even more in-depth look at the series next week.